BY Daniel Bampoe
The Parliament reconvened Tuesday, October 21, 2025, to begin the Third Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament — marking the final legislative sitting for the year.
But unlike previous sessions, lawmakers are returning to a reimagined chamber — one that reflects both modern aesthetics and a refreshed political atmosphere.
In a surprising twist, the newly renovated chamber has undergone a colourful facelift.
The seats have been rearranged in a more rounded formation, creating a vibrant, inclusive setup designed to foster dialogue and reduce the combative tone that often characterizes parliamentary debates.
The transformation, though subtle, signals a symbolic renewal of the legislative environment, with officials describing it as a move to “modernize and humanize” parliamentary work.
This new look sets the stage for what promises to be a busy and politically charged session.
Top on Parliament’s agenda is the presentation of the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy by Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, scheduled for mid-November.
The budget will be the first full-year fiscal plan under President John Mahama’s reinstated administration and is expected to outline strategies for sustaining the ongoing economic recovery, stabilizing inflation, and boosting local production.
Additionally, two new Members of Parliament from the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) — Bernard Bediako Baidoo (Akwatia) and Professor Alidu Seidu (Tamale Central) — were expected to be sworn in during today’s proceedings.
Their induction follows by-elections held earlier this year after the passing and resignation of their predecessors.
The House will also turn its attention to the nomination of Supreme Court Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, who has been tipped to become the next Chief Justice.
His vetting by the Appointments Committee will be one of the most closely watched proceedings this session, as it comes amid ongoing national debate about judicial reforms and the independence of the courts.
Beyond appointments and fiscal policy, Parliament is also expected to confront the deepening environmental concerns.
A new legislative instrument (L.I.) is set to be laid before the House seeking to revoke L.I. 2462, which currently empowers the President to authorize mining in forest reserves.
The proposal forms part of a broader government effort to strengthen environmental protection laws and combat illegal mining, or galamsey, which continues to devastate rivers and farmlands across the country.
The Members of Parliament will also consider a range of bills, motions, and policy statements from various ministries, touching on sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, and national security.
